Ethernet mesh gives you the best of both worlds — the ability to combine multiple access points connected wirelessly or by Ethernet cable. Here’s how to set it up.
AirTies devices on the same network usually communicate wirelessly with each other, while one of them has wired internet access. But it is also possible to give wired internet access to several of the access points. This is called Ethernet mesh.
Why Choose Ethernet Mesh?
Ethernet Mesh provides an even better and more predictable user experience, because wired Internet access is far less vulnerable to interference than wireless signals.
This solution can be especially beneficial in homes where it is difficult to get good wireless communication between devices, for example, when placing one device in a garage or annex, or between floors where the building materials may block the signals.
Before You Start: Ethernet Mesh Prerequisites
Ethernet mesh requires:
- Access to network ports that support 1 Gbps
- The locations where wired internet access is possible must also be good locations for distributing wireless coverage in your home; in other words, the AirTies access points must be suitably spread out in your home whether or not they are connected by cable. (You will achieve little by having two access points very close to each other.)
Setting up Ethernet Mesh
If you are setting up an AirTies network for the first time, follow the common network setup instructions. You get Ethernet mesh by giving two or more access points wired internet connections. All access points in a mesh do not need to have wired connections, and we do not recommend having wired connections for more than four.
To give your devices wired internet access, you can use:
- Ethernet cable connected directly to the router (your router may be part of a multi-purpose device / modem, as in the illustration)
- additional network outlets in the residence
- The Ethernet port of another AirTies device in the mesh
With wired internet access, the device no longer needs to be able to reach the other devices in the same mesh wirelessly, but it is equally important to allocate them in the home so that they provide the best coverage for clients in any room. See also the AirtTes placement guide.